It happened at around 1.50pm on Sunday and the air ambulance, a police helicopter as well as other emergency services were called to the scene on the Brockworth Bypass.

The incident closed the bypass in both directions at junction 11a for the M5 and it reopened by around 4.40pm.

A statement from Gloucestershire police yesterday afternoon said: "At around 1.50pm emergency services were called to the A417 near Zoons Court roundabout with a report that a woman had fallen from a bridge.

"The woman has been taken to Southmead Hospital via air ambulance with suspected serious injuries."

Traffic has been diverted off the A417 because of the incident

The incident caused severe delays in the area with some motorists trapped in their vehicles on the bypass.

Surrounding roads were heavily congested although traffic was returning to normal by the time traffic from Cheltenham Racecourse was heading out around the county.

Where to get help and what to do if you're worried about mental health issues

What to do if you feel low

If you're not feeling yourself, going through a bad time, or are just feeling sad more than usual, it's possible that you could be experiencing depression or anxiety.

This doesn't mean that you're necessarily at risk, there are scales of both, and it could be that you are just experiencing low mood or moderate anxiety.

The most important thing to do is to let people around you know how you're feeling.

Talking to a partner, family member or friend is essential. They may be able to offer support and can be there for you while you go through a difficult time.

Where can I get help?

You should also go to talk to your GP.

Your GP can help find out if you're experiencing anxiety, stress and depression.

They can recommend ways to feel better naturally, for example increasing your exercise levels, or can suggest medication and counselling.

They can also refer you on to other mental health services.

Who else can I call?

Let’s Talk is a free NHS service for anyone experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety, stress and depression. It can be contacted on 0800 073 2200 or via www.talk2gether.nhs.uk.

If you feel you need more help, you can call the 2gether NHS Foundation Trust in Gloucestershire direct on 0800 073 2200 to discuss an appointment.

The mental health charity Mind runs a helpline on 0300 123 3393, or 86463 on text.

The Samaritans is also always there for those who have nowhere else to turn.

But it stresses that it's not just for those who have suicidal thoughts. In fact they say: "Most people who contact us are not suicidal. When you talk to us, we will give you an opportunity to talk about any thoughts or feelings you have, whatever they may be."

You can call the Samaritans on 116 123.

In Cheltenham, the Suicide Crisis Centre provides vital support. Along with the services at the centre in High Street, Cheltenham, the charity also goes out to visit service users – sometimes staying for hours at a time if they are at high risk of suicide.